Watch Kiss Me Kate

Kiss Me Kate is a 1953 musical film directed by George Sidney and based on the stage musical of the same name. The film stars Kathryn Grayson as Lilli Vanessi and Howard Keel as Fred Graham. It also features Ann Miller as Lois Lane/Bianca. The film is a delightful adaptation of the stage musical, which is a meta-theatrical rendition of Shakespeare's play The Taming of the Shrew. The story revolves around the backstage and on-stage antics of a touring theatre company, putting on a musical version of The Taming of the Shrew. The director, producer and star of the show, Fred Graham, is also the ex-husband of the female lead, Lilli Vanessi. Sparks fly between the two as they rekindle their romance. Kiss Me Kate is notable for its unique structure, which interweaves scenes from the musical with the backstage drama of the characters putting it on. This adds to the film's sense of fun and spontaneity, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for the viewer. The music in the film is another standout feature, with iconic songs such as "Too Darn Hot", "Another Op'nin, Another Show", "Brush Up Your Shakespeare", and "So In Love". The musical numbers are staged with precision and flair, with Ann Miller stealing the show in her energetic tap dance routines. The chemistry between Grayson and Keel is palpable, and their duets are some of the highlights of the film. Grayson's soprano voice is on full display in songs like "Wunderbar" and "I Hate Men", while Keel's commanding baritone adds gravitas and masculinity to his performances. The supporting cast is also excellent, with Miller providing comic relief as the ditzy actress Lois Lane. She has several standout moments, including her rendition of "Always True To You In My Fashion" and her flirtatious interactions with gangsters played by Keenan Wynn and James Whitmore. The film is a Technicolor extravaganza, with vibrant costumes and sets that add to the spectacle of the musical numbers. The directing and cinematography are top-notch, with Sidney using clever camera angles and fluid movement to create a sense of momentum and excitement. Kiss Me Kate is a delightful musical romp that will appeal to fans of classic Hollywood cinema as well as musical theatre aficionados. It's a charming and entertaining film that showcases the talents of some of the era's biggest stars. Whether you're a fan of Shakespeare, musicals, or simply great filmmaking, Kiss Me Kate is a must-see.